Cork Tree
Phellodendron amurense
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Description
Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as the Cork Tree, is a deciduous tree native to northeastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it is valued for its resilience in various soil types, including poor and compacted soils, making it ideal for reforestation and land restoration projects. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall with a broad, spreading canopy that provides excellent shade, contributing to microclimate regulation in agroforestry systems. Its thick, corky bark has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. In natural farming systems, the Cork Tree serves as a windbreak or shelterbelt, protecting more delicate crops from harsh winds and providing habitat for beneficial wildlife. It plays a role in the mid-canopy layer of food forests and can be part of a guild with nitrogen-fixing plants like Siberian pea shrub (Caragana arborescens) and dynamic accumulators like comfrey (Symphytum spp.) to enhance soil fertility.
Growing Details
Phellodendron amurense prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor and compacted soils. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as comfrey can help improve soil conditions and provide ground cover. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Seeds should be stratified
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Invasive
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Phellodendron amurense</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Northeastern Asia, including China, Korea, an
applicable geo region: Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the Cork Tree is not commonly consumed due to its bitter taste, but it can be used in small quantities in traditional medicine. The bark is sometimes used to make a medicinal tea.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Phellodendron amurense is highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine. The bark is used for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is often employed to treat conditions such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and skin diseases. The bark is typically dried and decocted for medicinal use.
health concerns: The fruit and bark should be used with caution as they can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
other uses: The thick bark can be harvested for cork production, and the tree is also used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and form.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Phellodendron amurense
common names: Amur Cork Tree; Chinese Cork Tree; Japanese C
family: Rutaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Phellodendron
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -30ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 15.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Phellodendron amurense prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor and compacted soils. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as comfrey can help improve soil conditions and provide ground cover. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Seeds should be stratified
Potential Disturbances: The Cork Tree is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from leaf spot and root rot if grown in overly wet conditions. To manage pests naturally, encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to control any outbreaks.
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